India and UK held meeting on Electric Propulsion for Navy

India and the United Kingdom are engaged in discussions on sharing technical expertise and experience in maritime electric propulsion systems to meet the future requirements of Indian warships. The two countries are also exploring a training agreement to enhance cooperation among their armed forces.

• Indian naval warships currently do not have electric propulsion systems.
• The Indian Navy is looking to induct electric propulsion technology in its future warships.
• The UK’s Queen Elizabeth Class aircraft carriers are integrated full electric propulsion vessels.

What is Maritime electric propulsion technology?

Maritime electric propulsion technology is an innovative system that uses electric motors to power ships, replacing traditional mechanical propulsion systems. This technology offers several advantages, such as improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, increased maneuverability, and lower maintenance costs. Electric propulsion systems can be powered by various sources, including batteries, fuel cells, or generators, and can be used in a wide range of vessels, from small boats to large ships.

• Technology: Uses electric motors to power ships
• Advantages: Improved fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, increased maneuverability, and lower maintenance costs
• Power sources: Batteries, fuel cells, or generators
• Applications: Small boats to large ships, including ferries, cruise ships, and military vessels
• Environmental impact: Helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality in ports and coastal areas

Joint Working Group

India and the UK have set up a joint electronic propulsion working group. The group first met in the UK in February 2023. A delegation also met on HMS Lancaster during the ship’s visit to Kochi in March 2023. Discussions are currently at an exploratory stage.

UK’s Experience in Electric Propulsion

The UK has been developing maritime electric propulsion technology for the past 20 years. The strong relationship between India and the UK could help accelerate India’s progress in this field. The UK is offering to share its learnings and expertise with India.

Potential Benefits for India

• Faster development of electric propulsion technology for Indian warships
• Access to advanced core technologies for creating indigenous, ITAR-free jet engines
• Opportunity to manufacture and export Indian-owned jet engines with UK technology assistance

Planned Military Engagements

• The UK plans to strengthen its maritime activities in the Indo-Pacific region over the next few years.
• New UK frigates, once ready, may be deployed in the Indo-Pacific.
• The UK will operate two littoral response groups, one in the Euro-Atlantic and the other in the Indian Ocean Region.

The discussions are expected to pave the way for future joint development and deployment of advanced naval capabilities.

Month: Current Affairs - April, 2024

Category: International / World Current Affairs